Health Information Technicians

Have you ever wondered how your doctors can possibly keep track of your health history as well as those of hundreds, even thousands, of other patients? Well, guess what? They can’t.

But thanks to the skilled and careful work of health information technicians, they don’t have to. These technicians keep careful records of office visits, diagnoses, and treatment histories. And they don’t just make diary entries. Technicians must know the language of medical coding for record keeping and billing purposes, as well. 

Health information technicians keep careful logs of patient histories, diagnoses, treatments, and procedures for doctors and insurance companies. They also analyze data to help improve care and control costs.

Are You Ready To...?

• Consult with doctors to investigate diagnoses
• Check your work carefully
• Use computer software to determine how much insurance companies and Medicare will pay
• Supervise information clerks and medical transcriptionists in large offices or hospitals

It Helps To Be...

Very attentive to detail, good with numbers, and good with people. Are you a great note taker in class? Do you keep a personal diary so you can keep track of and reflect on the details of your life? If so, you already have some important skills for this profession.

Make High School Count

• Take plenty of math and science courses.
• Build strong computer skills.
• Volunteer to assist a medical records and health information technician at a doctor’s office or clinic.